Remarkable defensive play on goal line ensures 0-0 draw for U.S. women against Sweden

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Remarkable defensive play on goal line ensures 0-0 draw for U.S. women against Sweden

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (AP) — The United States played to a 0-0 tie with Sweden and former coach Pia Sundhage Friday night in one of the most anticipated matches of the group stage at the Women’s World Cup.

Abby Wambach came off the bench in the second half, but her header in the 72nd minute was popped up and over the crossbar by Swedish goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl. At the other end, defender Meghan Klingenberg headed a Sweden chance up and off the crossbar from the goal line to keep the game scoreless after the 70th minute.

A win would have assured the United States a spot in the knockout round as the Americans seek their third World Cup title, but first since 1999. The U.S. women advanced to the final four years ago in Germany, but fell to Japan on penalty kicks.

The United States, ranked No. 2 in the world, has one more group stage match, on Tuesday in Vancouver, British Columbia, against Nigeria. Sweden heads to Edmonton, Alberta, for its final group match with Australia. The monthlong tournament, with an expanded field of 24 teams, is being played across six Canadian cities.